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Did you know that over 3 million Americans are living with glaucoma, and only half know they have it? According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide—and it often comes with no warning signs.
If you live in San Diego, including La Jolla, Mission Hills, or Sorrento Valley, understanding glaucoma could be the key to preserving your vision. At Eye Care of San Diego, we specialize in early detection and customized treatments for glaucoma.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. This damage is often linked to high intraocular pressure (IOP), but some people develop glaucoma even with normal eye pressure.
As the AAO warns, vision loss from glaucoma is permanent, and once it’s gone, it can’t be restored. That’s why early diagnosis is critical.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
In its early stages, glaucoma usually doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Tunnel vision in advanced cases
- Blurred vision
- Seeing halos around lights
- Red eyes
- Severe eye pain (especially in angle-closure glaucoma)
- Headaches, nausea, or vomiting
Fact: According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, most people with open-angle glaucoma (the most common form) don’t notice vision loss until 40% of their optic nerve is damaged.


If you’re experiencing any of these signs, take our Glaucoma Risk Assessment.
Causes & Risk Factors
Glaucoma can affect anyone, but some are at higher risk. Common causes and risk factors include:
Causes:
- Increased intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Blocked or malfunctioning drainage angle
- Reduced blood flow to the optic nerve
- Secondary eye conditions (inflammation, trauma, tumors)
Risk Factors (per the AAO):
- Age 60+ (or 40+ for African Americans)
- Family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease
- Thin corneas
- Prolonged use of corticosteroids
- Nearsightedness or farsightedness
Glaucoma Treatment Options at Eye Care of San Diego
Glaucoma treatment focuses on lowering eye pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. While there is no cure, effective management can preserve your remaining vision.
1. Prescription Eye Drops
- First-line therapy
- Reduce fluid production or improve fluid drainage
- Must be used consistently
2. Oral Medications
- Used when drops aren’t enough
- May have side effects and require monitoring
3. Laser Therapy
- SLT (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty): Improves fluid drainage in open-angle glaucoma
- LPI (Laser Peripheral Iridotomy): Creates a small hole in the iris for angle-closure glaucoma
4. Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
- Newer, safer techniques
- Less downtime, ideal for mild to moderate glaucoma Read more.
5. Traditional Surgery
- Trabeculectomy: Creates a new drainage path
- Drainage Implants: Devices to help fluid flow out of the eye
Conclusion
Glaucoma may progress silently, but its impact on your vision can be life-altering if left undetected or untreated. The good news? With early diagnosis and proper treatment, vision loss from glaucoma can often be slowed or prevented. At Eye Care of San Diego, we’re here to help you take charge of your eye health with advanced diagnostic tools, personalized care, and experienced glaucoma specialists.
Whether you’re experiencing early signs—like blurry vision, eye pressure, or peripheral vision loss—or simply want peace of mind, we encourage you to take action today.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of glaucoma or are at risk, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with us today or call (800) 765-2737 to protect your vision and your future.
What our Glaucoma patients says about us:
“Dr. Sheils is the best Ophthalmologist I have ever had. As a specialist in the treatment of Glaucoma and Cataracts, conditions of which I both experience, Dr. Sheils always puts me at ease with her thoroughness, expertise, and professionalism.”
“Dr. Julazadeh is truly invested in my eye health. She’s been closely monitoring my glaucoma for several years now and I’m very happy with her knowledge and professionalism.”